need tweeter location advice

the installer wants to put the tweeters in the factory locations which happens to be on the dash close to the front windshield. he claims that i should get optimal imaging by doing this. the Rainbow installation guide states that when you do this it makes the tweeter harsh. on the x-over the tweeter can be adjusted to be more laid back.

if this is done the tweeter will be far away from the midrange. the Rainbow installation guide states that this will create a void that impairs the sound. would the tweeter be better off on the door about a foot and a half or so above the midrange?

Re: need tweeter location advice

If I were you, I would not put the tweeter in any set location yet, and just put some two sided tape and test them out in different locations to see what you like the best. I've seen some very odd installed with the tweeters facing toward the windshield, under the midbass, on pillars, etc... It's all about where it sounds the best at. Test out some locations before deciding.

Re: need tweeter location advice

Originally Posted by AllStar1500bd

If I were you, I would not put the tweeter in any set location yet, and just put some two sided tape and test them out in different locations to see what you like the best. I've seen some very odd installed with the tweeters facing toward the windshield, under the midbass, on pillars, etc... It's all about where it sounds the best at. Test out some locations before deciding.

he be right, +1 fo da piomp of tweeters.

On a more serious note, Rainbow knows thier own prefrences, as well as Laws of Sound Waves and Physics, they however, do not know your personal taste, nor what sound right to YOU. I found just the other day that placing my tweeter at my door handle, facing at an angle towards the dash sounds best and most complete. It will differ with every vehicle and with every person. Invest in some tape and do some experimenting.

Re: need tweeter location advice

I've traditionally been a fan of keeping the tweeter by the mid - kickpanels can be tricky though, doors aren't usually too bad...
...but ever since I started working with Focal comp sets, I don't think I've found one vehicle where I've ended up somewhere other than the A-pillar - don't know why in particular (suspect it purely has to do with the directionality of the tweeter, but it's no larger than the average tweet), but with their stuff it's the best way to go.

I've had less luck on the dash, firing up (generally the issue is the instrument cluster "hump").

I've always been able to dial out any "harshness" with the crossover (but it's worth mentioning I like things to sound a little "hot" personally - I want a shreik from an old-school hair metal band to crack my glass ) attenuation settings.

But I have a really good "bottom line" for you, to make your OWN decision - works every time.

"Try it before you buy it".

What that means is - don't cut any holes, make any brackets, or do anything permanent you might regret.

Get the system all wired up and running - and stick a piece of doublesided foam tape on the back of the tweeter.
And TRY it in your proposed locations. Spend some time with it there. Try alternatiives.

When you are all done, you'll feel comfortable with your chosen location, and you can permanently run your tweeter wire down to the crossover behind your car's panels where it'll finally live OUT of sight.

Re: need tweeter location advice

Originally Posted by AllStar1500bd

If I were you, I would not put the tweeter in any set location yet, and just put some two sided tape and test them out in different locations to see what you like the best. I've seen some very odd installed with the tweeters facing toward the windshield, under the midbass, on pillars, etc... It's all about where it sounds the best at. Test out some locations before deciding.

Re: need tweeter location advice

i think i'm going with your suggestion since you have the same vehicle and the same comps so you just field tested for me and gave me the results. thanks. now for the 1500XXK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Uhm, his results are great, but honestly, no one can tell you what YOU like, unless they are YOU. So I hope you don't go with what sounds good to HIM and then end up being dissapointed with location after possibly cutting/chopping the interior of your vehicle.